Workplace accident claims life of Calgary man

The hazards of working with machinery of any kind are present on many job sites here in British Columbia and across the country. Unfortunately, sometimes the hazards do not make themselves known until it is too late to take protective action. That was the case for an energy sector worker killed recently in a tragic workplace accident.

The accident happened during the evening of Oct. 23, 2016. At around 5:45 p.m., workers were pumping water from a Shell Canada work site near Fox Creek, a small town a couple of hours northwest of Edmonton. The pump in use began revving unusually, and workers went to investigate the matter.

During the equipment inspection, a hose attached to the pump unexpectedly detached from the machine. The hose struck one of the workers, and he was treated for his injuries at the scene before being taken to a hospital in town. The individual, a 47-year old man who had been working as a contractor with Secure Energy Services, died later the same day. There were no other injuries associated with the accident.

Occupational Health and Safety is investigating the incident, seeking possible causes for the tragic event. Both Shell Canada and Secure Energy Services are cooperating with OHS in the investigation. All work at the site has been shut down for the time being.

The results of the investigation should bring to light whether this was a case of negligence or unforeseen equipment failure. Regardless of the outcome, this is a tragic loss for the deceased's family and friends. If a workplace accident has occurred affecting your employees -- or affecting your loved ones -- we recommend consulting with a law firm with a focus on labour, employment and workers' compensation matters. Counsel can provide employers with information on their specific legal obligations that must be fulfilled in a timely manner following a workplace accident, or provide a worker or worker's family with information on any compensation claims that they may have.